Ep. 8: “Veterinary Virology” Featuring Dr. Robyn Hall
Jul 6, 2021
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Dr. Robyn Hall, a veterinary virologist, discusses using rabbit caliciviruses for biocontrol. Topics include antimicrobial response networks in leprosy, T cell roles in cancer, rabbit impact on Australia, ethical concerns of virus use, and studying rabbit virus evolution through organoid models.
Utilizing rabbit caliciviruses RHDV1 and RHDV2 for biocontrol requires comprehensive testing to ensure effectiveness and minimize unintended consequences.
Integration of viral biocontrol with other methods like poison and habitat reduction is crucial for sustainable management of rabbit populations.
Ongoing surveillance globally to monitor new viral variants and improve testing strategies is essential for enhancing biocontrol efforts and animal health.
Deep dives
Introduction to Rabbit Invasion in Australia
Rabbits were introduced to Australia by European settlers and rapidly multiplied, causing extensive environmental and agricultural damage with over 300 native species threatened.
Rabbit Caliciviruses: RHDV1 and RHDV2
Rabbit Caliciviruses, RHDV1 and RHDV2, emerged as potent biocontrol tools for rabbit populations, resulting in mass mortality events. RHDV1 was released in the 1990s with species-specific lethality, while RHDV2 emerged in 2010, affecting young rabbits and overcoming vaccine immunity, leading to its global spread.
Future of Rabbit Population Management
Current research focuses on sustainability in rabbit population management, integrating biocontrol viruses with other methods like poison and habitat reduction. The evolving landscape of viral biocontrol requires a long-term strategy considering population immunity and genetic resistance for effective rabbit population control.
Research on Rabbit Biocontrol and Future Directions
The podcast episode delves into the research on rabbit biocontrol, focusing on the evolution of RHDB1 to RHDB2 as a biocontrol tool, with the latter being less species-specific and infecting a wider range, including leopards and silver largus species. Extensive testing is essential before considering RHDB2 for release. The discussion emphasizes the importance of ongoing surveillance for new variants globally, enhancing the utilization of existing viruses through improved testing for population immunity, akin to strategic antibiotic use.
Dr. Hall's Veterinary and Research Journey
Dr. Hall's veterinary background and Ph.D. in marine biology led to a specialization in infectious diseases, particularly in animals impacting food production and zoonotic diseases. Her research spans from molecular biology to biocontrol approaches like developing recombinant vaccines. The conversation highlights the integral role of understanding animal pathogens for global health and food production, focusing on harnessing viruses to enhance animal health and welfare.
Dr. Robyn Hall is a Research Scientist and Team Leader at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation. She is a veterinary virologist whose research focuses on innovative and applied solutions for improving rabbit biocontrol using rabbit caliciviruses.
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